League Two side Doncaster Rovers have confirmed the signing of Rotherham United player Richard Wood on a 12 month contract following the expiration of his deal at the Millers as confirmed by the club’s official website.
The 37-year-old spent nine years at Rotherham United having joined the club in 2014. The defender played over 200 games for them and captained them to three promotions and a Papa Johns Trophy triumph in the 21/22 season. His contract is due to expire on June 30th and has now put pen to paper, signing for Grant McCann’s side.
The experienced player has spent the majority of his playing time in the Championship and League One, playing over 600 games within these divisions.
In his most recent and final campaign with Rotherham, The Millers remained in the Championship after having failed to secure this in their two consecutive attempts. Reaching 19th place and 50 points in the league. With Wood contributing to their survival, playing 28 league matches.
Who Is Richard Wood?
Wood, who was born in Ossett, England is an established defender plays primarily in a central defensive position. He started off his career within Sheffield Wednesday’s youth academy, he ended up playing over 3 separate divisions (League Two, League One and the Championship), representing them over 100 times from 2002 to 2009. The defender then moved to Coventry City in 2009, which was originally set to be a loan deal that stretched until January of 2010 however Wood would go on to sign a permanent deal with the Sky Blues.
This contract would last until 2013, he would stay for the entire duration of his contract for the Championship side, departing in 2013 for a short one year stay at Charlton Athletic where he featured in 26 games for the (at the time) mid-table Championship side.
On the 26th of June 2014, Wood signed for Rotherham United, during his 1st season he would join Crawley Town on loan on a one month loan deal. He then enjoyed two futher loan deals during his 9 years with The Millers. One such loan was a month long stay with Fleetwood Town at the beginning of the 15/16 campaign followed by a three month spell with Chesterfield.
Following the departure of the Rotherham manager at the time, Paul Warne, September 2022, Wood was installed as caretaker manager of the club along with fellow teammate Lee Peltier, within this period the pair managed a singular game, a 2-0 loss at home to Exeter City.
What’s been said?
Doncaster Rovers manager Grant McCann had positive things to say about the new addition to his squad:
“It’s a really good signing for us. He brings really good experience, he’s a natural leader, he’s a really good presence in both boxes – not just defending set pieces but also attacking them.”
“He’s had a tremendous career. There’s been quite a bit of interest in him since he came on the market and we’re delighted to get him here.”
Wood also had some words of joy after signing for the club:
“The aim is to get out of League Two but I’m hoping I can also help the rest of the team,” he said. “I see myself as a leader and an organiser. I’ve got plenty of experience, being around a long time and hopefully I can help this young team and make them better.“
“I’m pleased, really excited and looking forward to a good season ahead.”
Writers Review
I personally believe this is a very sensible and beneficial appointment from Doncaster. Wood will help with many things on and off the pitch, as well as the player still being a top defender, the experience he will also bring will help improve the whole team. With the club needing more leadershil, Wood provides can fit that role, and will surely help improve the defence which conceeded 65 goals last season.
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